School children in Morant Bay, Jamaica

Having been a teacher myself, I like to collect school supplies and bring pencils, calculators, maps, and workbooks to the elementary school children whenever I visit Jamaica.

On this trip to the Morant Bay Elementary School in St. Thomas Parish I was greeted by throngs of beautiful, happy children eager to hear a little about me, where I live, why was I there, etc. Sometimes I stand in front of the class, especially if the subject is English or Literature, and ask a few simple questions to bring them out and to hear them speak.

I love the look of curosity, eagerness and friendliness in their faces.

School is a place of peace and order in their sometimes hectic lives; somehow they manage to come to school dressed in clean and pressed uniforms. They take pride in themselves and feel eager to get an education, at least in the elementary grades.

Isn't the little boy in the front adorable? They are an inspiration to me and a constant reminder of why I like to visit Jamaica: the people.

I just wish I could do more. Perhaps my photos of these children and others will inspire other visitors to do something similar.

I know this contest will be receiving hundreds of beautiful beach scenes and girls in bikinis, but I like to share my photos of the real Jamaican people as I know them.

About The Author

A patriotic Jamaican who adores his culture, Wellesley has been using this medium to share what he calls 'the uniqueness of Jamaica with the world' - since April 2007.

To date, he serves over 8,300 unique readers / viewers per day.

His efforts have earned him featured positions in local publications, including the Jamaica Gleaner's Hospitality Jamaica, Carlong Publishers, as well as recognition from numerous prestigious international agencies and universities.